Ibex Men's Mechanic Shirt : Tune Up Your Summer Wardrobe

It's summer, so it's barbeque season! That means I need a couple of shirts that are a bit nicer than my standard cotton tees for summer dinner parties and evenings out on the town. I still want a casual look...but something with buttons and a collar would get me more mileage.

Ibex's Men's Mechanic Shirt is just the fix for my busy summer lineup. Made out of super thin merino wool, this short-sleeved button-down shirt drapes really well, giving me a nice loose-but-not-baggy fit that keeps me comfortable and looks great with jeans or shorts. It's definitely dressier than a t-shirt and because the wool is so fine, it feels softer against my skin than a woven cotton shirt. Best of all, I don't feel "buttoned down."

Unlike a cotton tee or shirt, Ibex's Mechanic Shirt wicks away sweat really well and dries fast, so I can man the BBQ and not melt (or catch fire -- wool is naturally flame retardant!). I can also wear it several times in between washings because merino wool breathes so well and resists odors. That's a handy feature for traveling. I'm always looking for ways to pack lighter; a reusable shirt is key.

I'm glad this shirt has a pocket because I always carry my cell phone in my chest pocket, as well as parking stubs. I also like the contrast colored material under the collar and the pearly buttons. All of these subtle features help make me stand out among the crowds of men wearing short-sleeved plaid shirts. (Nothing wrong with those shirts...just that sometimes I need to be different.)

This is a well-made shirt that looks great and performs like a technical sports top. I like that.

Available in men's sizes S-XL in Black, Asphalt, and Dried Pepper.

Eco Creds: Made out of merino wool, a renewable material.

Ibex makes a variety of men's and women's apparel for active and casual pursuits.

Bottom Line: The Ibex Mechanic Shirt is a nice top that travels well, dresses up a pair of khaki shorts, and looks great for work, too. --B.M. (June '10)

BUY ONLINE: $98 (on sale for $65.45 at EverestGear.com)

Manufacturer's Site: www.ibex.com

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